SoKY’s Choice: Ties for Change supports local youth programs

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WNKY) — Community members gathered Saturday night for the annual “Ties for Change” benefit gala, raising money to support mentoring and education programs for students across the Bowling Green area.

The event supports youth initiatives led by For a Real Change and the Boys to Men Leadership Group, along with their partnership with Jonesville Academy.

Aurelia Spalding, founder and executive director of For a Real Change, said the gala helps fund programs that provide mentorship and opportunities for local youth.

“So tonight is an annual fundraiser for Boys to Men and For a Real Change, as well as our partnership program, Jonesville Academy,” Spalding said.

Organizers say the money raised goes directly toward programs that serve hundreds of students in the community, including academic mentoring, educational field trips and college and career readiness initiatives.

“So the money from the fundraiser directly goes to our youth programs… academic-based mentoring programs, educational field trips, college and career readiness programs,” Spalding said.

Leaders say community support plays a key role in making those programs possible.

“Events like this just creates pathways of giving that allows us to continue to do more for youth in our community,” said Tyreon Clark, executive director of the Boys to Men Leadership Group.

Supporters say the event is not only about raising money, but also about building stronger connections within the community.

“This organization is completely about change,” said Joda Johnson, a board member with For a Real Change. “Every time we come, we think about how many people’s lives we’re changing.”

Organizers say they hope the annual gala continues to grow, helping expand opportunities for young people throughout southcentral Kentucky.